Full Breakdown
Manchester United's Secret Transfer Meeting: The Path to Paul Pogba's Return
11/26/2025, 5:02:18 PM
Background of the Transfer Meeting
In the wake of Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement, Manchester United underwent significant changes, seeking to reclaim its status among the Premier League elite. During this transitional period, Ed Woodward, the club's executive vice-chairman, consulted former players Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt regarding potential transfer targets. This consultation took place while Ryan Giggs served as caretaker manager during the 2013/14 season, following the departure of David Moyes.
Key Figures in the Meeting
The meeting included Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt, Ryan Giggs, and Ed Woodward, who participated via Zoom from London. The discussion focused on identifying midfielders who could bolster the team, leading to a shortlist of four players.
The Shortlist of Midfielders
During the meeting, Scholes and Butt were presented with several options, including Paul Pogba, Toni Kroos, Cesc Fabregas, and Luka Modric. Scholes recalled that the conversation revolved around the pros and cons of each player, ultimately leading to a consensus that Manchester United should pursue both Pogba and Kroos to enhance the team's midfield dynamics.
Decision and Outcome
The meeting concluded with a clear directive: to target Pogba and Kroos, as the club aimed to return to its former glory. Subsequently, Manchester United re-signed Paul Pogba from Juventus in August 2016 for a fee that could reach £93 million, including add-ons. During his second spell at the club, Pogba made 233 appearances, scoring 39 goals and providing 51 assists before leaving on a free transfer in 2022.
Criticism and Reflection on Pogba's Tenure
Pogba's time at Manchester United has been met with mixed reviews. While some fans celebrate his moments of brilliance, others argue that he did not consistently perform at a level commensurate with his transfer fee. The potential impact of adding players like Kroos or Modric alongside Pogba is a topic of speculation, as both have enjoyed successful careers at Real Madrid, while Fabregas also had notable stints in England and Italy.
Official Statements & Responses
In discussing the meeting, Scholes emphasized the importance of complementary players in the midfield, stating, "We're not all the same, and you need a bit to complement each other." Butt echoed this sentiment, noting the need for a balanced approach in player selection.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I remember we were all discussing pros and cons to them all, and the end of the conversation was 'go for both of them, Kroos and Pogba, because we're Man United and we need to get back to the top'.” — Nicky Butt, Former Manchester United Player
- “Pogba's career is often viewed through different lenses, with some recalling the magic he could weave, while others feel he never consistently lived up to his hefty price tag.” — Analysis of Pogba's Tenure
This secret meeting highlights the strategic discussions that shaped Manchester United's approach to rebuilding its squad, particularly the pivotal decision to bring Paul Pogba back to Old Trafford.
